01
The First Solo
The most memorable day in any pilot's life. You'll take command of the Cherokee 140 alone for the first time.
ConfidenceSkill
Gold-Standard Certification
Private Pilot License Training
Earn the key to the skies. Our PPL program at Page Field transforms you from a passenger into a commander of the clouds.
Age
17 years old
Language
English proficient
Medical
3rd Class FAA
Flight Time
40 hours min.
Core Curriculum
Mastering the Cherokee 140
Our program isn't just about passing a test — it's about building "stick-and-rudder" proficiency that stays with you for life. We use the Piper Cherokee 140 for its exceptional stability and forgiving flight characteristics.
- G5 dual glass cockpit
- ADS-B In/Out technology
- Meticulous 100-hr inspections
- Comfortable leather interior
Elite Success
95% first-time pass rate for our PPL candidates at Page Field.
Major milestones on the way to your certificate
02
Cross-Country Navigation
Learn to navigate away from Page Field to airports across Florida using both visual and electronic methods.
PlanningTech
03
The Checkride
Your final practical exam with an FAA examiner. We ensure you're over-prepared and ready to pass with flying colors.
CertificationElite
Plan Your Budget
Interactive tuition estimator
Model a realistic estimate based on your training pace. Drag the sliders.
Interactive Tuition Estimator
Estimate your flight-training costs based on aircraft and training hours.
1. Your Training Aircraft
Piper Cherokee 140
Wet rate — fuel & maintenance included
Rates are "wet" (fuel & maintenance included).
FAA Min: 40 hrs
Realistic training average for a PPL is 50–60 hours.
Hours flown with an instructor. Remaining hours are flown solo.
One-on-one pre/post-flight briefings and oral test prep.
Cost Estimation Summary
Aircraft Wet Rental (55 hrs)
Piper Cherokee 140 (4-seat, IFR capable)
$10,175
Dual Flight Instruction (40 hrs)
One-on-one with your dedicated CFI
$2,600
Ground Briefings (25 hrs)
Oral test prep & pre/post-flight briefing
$1,625
FAA Checkride & Supplies
Examiner fee (~$800) + iPad app, books, plotting tools (~$400)
$1,200
Estimated Total Cost
$15,600
Southwest Florida's Best-Value Training
Training Disclaimer: Flight training is self-paced and performance-based. These figures are estimates only. Actual costs vary with study habits, lesson frequency, weather, and aptitude. Contact us for current rates.
Private Pilot License — common questions
How long does it take to get a Private Pilot License in Fort Myers?
Most students complete the PPL in 3–6 months. The FAA minimum is 40 hours of flight time; the national average is 60–70. With 300+ flyable days a year at Page Field, consistent students progress faster than in most of the country.
What are the requirements to start PPL training?
You must be at least 17 to earn the certificate (you can start training earlier), be able to read, speak, and understand English, and hold a 3rd Class FAA medical certificate. No prior experience is required.
Is PPL training one-on-one?
Yes. Every lesson at Core Aviator Training is private, one instructor to one student — no shared cockpits or group ground sessions. Your training is tailored to your pace.
What aircraft will I train in?
A Piper Cherokee 140 upgraded to a 150-HP Lycoming engine — a stable, forgiving low-wing trainer with a G5 glass cockpit and ADS-B.
Start Your Career Today
Ready to take the first step toward your Private Pilot License? Our admissions team is standing by to schedule your consultation.
Operating out of the FMY General Aviation terminal.